Huining Xiao

DR. HUINING XIAO joined the University of New Brunswick in
2001 as an associate professor, was promoted to professor in
2005 and retired in 2024 after 23 years of service. He continues
to contribute as an honorary research professor.
Huining earned a PhD in chemical engineering from McMaster
University (1994), a master of science in engineering (1987) and
a bachelor of engineering (1982) from Nanjing Tech University.
At UNB, he taught chemical engineering and supervised 34 PhD
students, 37 master’s students and 46 postdoctoral fellows or
visiting scholars. Many of his trainees now hold leadership roles
in industry or academia, including prestigious research chair
positions.
His research focused on creating advanced materials with realworld
benefits. He developed antimicrobial-modified cellulose
for personal protective equipment, biodegradable food
packaging with improved safety features and eco-friendly filters
that purify water and restore soil. He also pioneered materials
that slowly and efficiently release agricultural chemicals,
reducing waste and environmental impact.
Internationally recognized as one of the top two per cent of
researchers in his field, Huining has received multiple awards for
his contributions, including the Highly Cited Researcher Award
and the designation as a Canadian leader in materials science
in 2024. His record includes over 500 publications, significant
research funding and presentations at major conferences
worldwide. He was elected a Fellow of the Canadian Academy
of Engineering in 2015.
Huining’s work shows how chemical engineering can create
sustainable materials that protect health, improve food safety
and support environmental stewardship.